Chinese Ming Dynasty Bronze Nanhai Guanyin, 16th/17th Century, China
Located in Austin, TX
A decidingly charming Chinese polychromed and gilt cast bronze figure of Nanhai Guanyin, Guanyin of the South Sea, Ming Dynasty, 16th/17th century, China.
Bronze
A Large and Rare Chinese 18th C. or earlier Patinated Bronze Bust of Guanyin
Located in New York, NY
A Large and Rare Chinese 18th-Century or possibly earlier Patinated Bronze Bust of Guanyin This large Patinated Bronze Bust represents Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, portra...
Bronze
Ming Dynasty Gilt Lacquered Bronze Songzi Guanyin
Located in Dallas, TX
A early Ming dynasty lacquered bronze statue of the feminine Buddha figure; Guanyin with child, circa 15th-16th century China.
Bronze
Ming Dynasty Gilt Lacquered Bronze Figure of Guanyin Buddha
Located in Dallas, TX
A Ming Dynasty Gilt Lacquered Bronze Figure of Guanyin.
Bronze
Chinese Period Ming Dynasty Gilded Bronze Figure of Guanyin
Located in Hudson, NY
This very finely cast figure seated in Vajrasana posture shows many detailed refinements such as the jewelry, crown, lovely almond shaped downcast eyes, engraved rob patterns and the...
Bronze
Ming Bronze Figure of Guanyin
Located in Fossano, IT
A bronze figure of seated Guanyin holding a Ruyi. Traces of gilding, China, Ming dynasty 17th century.
Bronze
Chinese Gilt Bronze Guanyin, 17th Century, Ming Dynasty
Located in Gargrave, North Yorkshire
Chinese gilt bronze figure of Guanyin, 17th Century, Ming Dynasty.
Bronze
Chinese Bronze Guanyin, circa 1600, Ming Dynasty
Located in Gargrave, North Yorkshire
Chinese bronze figure of Guanyin, circa 1600, Ming dynasty.
Bronze
In what’s considered a golden age of Chinese furniture, Ming dynasty artisans produced expertly made designs that married elegance and function. Ming furniture was versatile, such as tables that doubled as writing desks and dining spaces. But it was also beautiful, enhancing a room with clean lines, soft curves and sophisticated decoration.
Dating from 1368 to 1644, the Ming dynasty was a vibrant time for international trade and culture. Especially for scholars and the wealthy, there was an emphasis on a home’s design to promote a good life. From large wardrobes to angular sofas, Ming-style furniture was defined by its joinery, which, instead of nails, involved meticulously designed interlocking elements of wood. This material was carefully selected and positioned to make the grain part of the design. The slow-growing huanghuali, a yellowish rosewood, was particularly valued for its bright color.
Although ornamentation was minimal, Ming dynasty furniture often featured carved or painted details of flowers, insects, dragons, fruits and other motifs. Chairs crafted for scholars could include calligraphic brush writing. As overseas trade expanded, techniques from the West, like cloisonné enamel painting, adorned table screens and other pieces.
Ming furniture influenced styles abroad such as Queen Anne in England and Hollywood Regency in the United States. The curved shape of Ming armchairs had a profound impact on legendary Scandinavian modernist furniture designer Hans Wegner. The Danish cabinetmaker shared the Ming artisans’ interest in creating streamlined, functional furnishings, and his China chair, Round chair and Wishbone chair are inspired by Ming dynasty seating. Today, the Ming-style horseshoe chair is a graceful and sought-after type of seat, and contemporary Chinese designers such as Jerry Chen and Gan Erke are also drawing on this heritage for a new era of style.
Find a collection of Ming cabinets, decorative objects, lounge chairs and other furniture on 1stDibs.